Microwave conductivity of conductive polymers and their blends

Aim of project
The proposed project is devoted to fabrication of organic materials with controlled microwave conductivity. The selected research direction is triggered by quick development of microwave technology. Microwave radiation is at present widely used in cellular telephones, satellite communication, radars and related areas and in consequence there is great demand for elaboration of new materials capable of shielding microwave radiation. Taking into account their peculiar electrical properties, conductive (conjugated) polymers from the families of polyaniline, polythiophene and polypyrrole, as well as their blends with conventional polymers, are especially well suited for this purpose. Careful design of polymer chain microstructure together with appropriate selection of dopants and special additives should lead to materials which combine the desired microwave conductivity with facile processibility and good environmental stability. The project consists of the preparative part (oligomer, polymer, dopant and additives synthesis, materials processing) and the electrical measurements part in collaboration with Faculty of Electronics and Information Technology (comparative studies of microwave and dc conductivities).

Expected results
Elaboration of processible and environmentally stable polymeric materials exhibiting high microwave conductivity.